Rita Notes: American garden furniture

Why grey paint is always a good idea

From refined pale silver to dramatic slate, grey is increasingly the neutral we all turn to for any and every room. Warm or cool, light or dark, grey can create a perfect backdrop for bright patterned fabrics and vivid artwork, or add complication to black and white in a monochrome scheme. We've rounded up our favourite grey rooms from all over the house for quick inspiration.

This grey panelled utility room is the perfect example of what to do with that strange little space in your home. A smart green-grey unifies this functional space and gives it a sophisticated period feel.

In a spare room at a Belgian art collector's London home by Freddy van Zevenbergen, grey herringbone cashmere covers the walls, providing a dark and dramatic backdrop for the bright red and white headboard, covered in a Jane Shelton fabric.